ROBERT TYCHKOWSKI, QMI Agency

The Oilers draft pick is expected to be named one of Team Canada’s alternates for the upcoming World Championships in Germany.

“I haven’t been given an official invite yet, but by the sounds of it hopefully I’ll be going,” said Eberle, who’s still skating back home in Regina, even though the Springfield Falcons’ season is long over.

“Just to be on the team is pretty special. Just the experience of being around the guys, hanging out, is pretty special.

“Even getting a couple of exhibition games in would be a great experience, a step above. I went to the AHL at the end of the year and that was a great experience, too.

“I think all of this is going to help me in the long run to try and make Edmonton.”

Eberle, had 50 goals and 56 assists in just 57 games for Regina this year, earning him a nomination for WHL player of the year honours. He’s up against Craig Cunningham of the Vancouver Giants for the award, which will be announced on April 28 in Edmonton.

Eberle also proved his worth with 14 points in 11 games with the Falcons.

He thought he might get a couple of games in with the Oilers, but is content to wait until next year.

“That was in the back of my mind. I thought hopefully if I played well enough I would get a shot, get up there, but that’s not my decision, I just play hockey,” he said.

“I have a big summer ahead of me to train and work out and come into camp with the best opportunity to make that team. That’s my goal.

“I want to be on that team as soon as possible. I’m going to do everything I can to get there.”

Oilers forward Ryan Potulny and defenceman Taylor Chorney have been invited to represent the United States at the worlds competition.